International Paralympic Committee President: "Tokyo Paralympics Will Be the Most Important Games"

Plan to Proceed with Tokyo Olympics Despite Calls for Cancellation

Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower in Minato Ward, Tokyo, Japan, were illuminated with Olympic colors on the 14th of last month to celebrate "Tokyo Olympics D-100."
[Image source=Yonhap News]

Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), stated in an online interview with Kyodo News and other major Japanese media on the 13th that he is "pursuing plans to hold both the Olympic and Paralympic Games" amid growing calls to cancel the Tokyo Olympics due to COVID-19.

The Tokyo Olympics are scheduled from July 23 to August 8, and the Paralympics from August 24 to September 5. President Parsons acknowledged the rising negative public opinion in Japan regarding hosting both events amid the spread of COVID-19, saying, "I understand there is a fear of the unknown," and pledged to provide information to the Japanese public assuring that the Games will be safe.

Regarding holding the events without spectators, he said, "People around the world are watching the competitions on TV or the internet," and added, "I believe we can achieve what we aim for even with no spectators." Addressing recent criticism targeting athletes who want the Games to proceed, he noted, "Since we live in a democratic society, various opinions can emerge."

On the matter of Pfizer, the American pharmaceutical company, offering vaccines free of charge to athletes, he expressed hope that the supply would be as soon as possible and said it would be the best means to enhance safety. Concerning Paralympic athletes worried about vaccine side effects, he explained, "There is no data or research report indicating that vaccination is particularly risky for people with disabilities."

He emphasized that through this Games held amid COVID-19, he wants to send a message that people with disabilities, who make up 15% of the world’s population, should not be marginalized or forgotten, stating, "The Tokyo Paralympics will be the most important Games ever."

Japanese media outlets simultaneously reported on President Parsons’ interview on the 16th.